Councilman announces candidacy for mayor
Charles Bourbeau.
– Atascadero City Councilmember Charles Bourbeau has officially declared his candidacy for Mayor in the November 2024 election.
The announcement comes as Mayor Heather Moreno sets her sights on the 5th District Supervisor position, leaving the Mayor’s seat vacant. Bourbeau, who says he had made the decision to run months ago, chose the beginning of the new year to share the news.
“While I decided some months ago to run, the arrival of the new year and more people inquiring, makes it the right time to make an announcement,” said Bourbeau.
Having relocated to Atascadero in 1985 when his wife Melissa started teaching in local schools, Bourbeau retired after a three-decade career as a full-time officer in the Army National Guard. His responsibilities included financial management, logistics, and contracting. Elected to the Atascadero City Council in 2016, he secured re-election in 2020 as the top vote-getter among five candidates.
“While I have been on council, our city has made great progress,” Bourbeau stated. “We have improved funding and staffing for public safety and other services. Substantial investment in infrastructure has resulted in improved neighborhood roads, new bridges, and new facilities including pickleball courts and the inclusive Joy Playground. The council is promoting responsible economic development and exciting events for our residents and visitors. The city is well run and financially stable with a AAA bond rating… As mayor, I want to continue that record of progress.”
Endorsements for Bourbeau include former Mayors Tom O’Malley and Rolfe Nelson. O’Malley remarked, “Charles is the right candidate for Mayor in 2024. He is thorough, thoughtful, and knowledgeable and brings a common-sense approach to all issues facing the Council. He is respected by his peers and ready to lead.”
Donn Clickard, a longtime school board member and community institution, expressed his admiration for Bourbeau’s “logical approach to issues and his continual support for community activities.” Clickard added, “Charles always donates all his city council pay to good causes in our community and couples that support with physical hands-on volunteering. He is a great example of why Atascadero is a ‘we, not me community’ and how much our community accomplishes when we work together.”
The filing period for mayoral candidates is scheduled for July/August.
For more information, visit the Committee to Elect Charles Bourbeau Atascadero Mayor 2024 at charles4atascadero.com or contact them at (805) 466-2044.
